Jumpin' From Limb To Limb

Description

John Grimaldi, aka Studebaker John, was born in Chicago in 1952. With more than fifty years of career behind him, he is a true emblematic figure of Chicago blues. Rather than settling for the usual covers, John writes his own songs, combining raw power with virtuoso technique. His authenticity, dedication, and originality have earned him international renown. Raised in an Italian-American neighborhood, John was influenced by his father and began playing harmonica at the age of seven. He spent a lot of time on the iconic Maxwell Street, where the blues he heard there shaped his artistic identity. A decisive moment was his meeting with Hound Dog Taylor & The Houserockers. Captivated by the slide guitar and the energy of their music, John then devoted himself to slide guitar and Chicago blues. In the 1970s, he formed his band, Studebaker John & The Hawks, and released his first album, Straight No Chaser, in 1978. In the early 1990s, he became known in Europe with albums such as Born To Win and Nothin' But Fun, and since then he has been an essential figure on the international scene. With 21 albums to his name, his concerts are renowned for their overflowing energy and the connection they create with the audience. John performs the blues as he sees it: raw and authentic. His performances in clubs and festivals around the world confirm his talent as a fully accomplished artist. John’s music has also been used in commercials and films. Critics regularly present him as an artist who respects and reinvents the Chicago blues tradition, notably through his work with the Maxwell Street Kings and his albums on prestigious labels such as Delmark Records. He often addresses social issues in his songs, which ensures the relevance of his music over the years.